Joint Injections Specialist
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Robert L. Stephenson, M.D.
Internal Medicine Physician located in Encinitas, CA
If you’re one of the 40 million Americans who live with painful arthritic joint pain, you may benefit from a joint injection. Robert L. Stephenson, MD, offers cortisone joint injections at his office, conveniently located in Encinitas, California. If your joint pain is disrupting your life and keeping you from your regular activities, call Dr. Stephenson’s office or make an appointment online today.
Joint Injections Q & A
What is a joint injection?
Dr. Stephenson provides cortisone joint injections to relieve painful inflammation in and around your joints. Cortisone is a type of corticosteroid, a family of powerful anti-inflammatories.
Joint injections usually combine the corticosteroid and a local anesthetic such as lidocaine to provide immediate pain relief as well as the longer-lasting benefits of the cortisone. Dr. Stephenson can administer the injections in your ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, spine, and wrists. If you have arthritis or joint problems in your hands and fingers, he can even make the injection in the smallest joints of your body.
Why would I need a joint injection?
Osteoarthritis is the most common ailment that Dr. Stephenson treats with joint injections. However, you may also find pain relief from joint injections if you have:
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Gout
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Reactive arthritis
If you live with joint pain, especially if the pain limits your mobility or prevents you from your regular activities or beloved hobbies, make an appointment with Dr. Stephenson for diagnosis and customized treatment to relieve your discomfort.
What should I expect during a joint injection?
Dr. Stephenson gives you customized instructions on how to prepare for your joint injection. For example, if you take blood-thinning medication, you may need to stop for a few days before your shot to prevent bruising or bleeding. You should also tell Dr. Stephenson about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you take to ensure nothing will interact with your injection and reduce its effectiveness.
On the day of your joint injection, you may need to change into a hospital gown, depending on the location of your joint pain. Dr. Stephenson cleans your skin at the injection site and applies a topical numbing cream for your comfort. He then inserts the needle into your joint and releases the cortisone.
After your injection, you should protect the injection site for a day or two. For example, if you had the shot in your knee, you should stay off your feet as much as possible. If you have any discomfort, use an ice pack to relieve swelling but avoid heat. For example, don’t take a bath or use a hot tub for at least two days after your injection.
If you have joint pain, call Dr. Stephenson or make an appointment online today to find out how joint injections can reduce your pain.
